WHO’S WHO?

Navigating the future:

How tech leaders can thrive in a world of digital disruption 

From acoustic drone detection in Ukraine to rapid prototyping in NHS hospitals, Olly unpacked practical strategies innovators are using to modernise systems, reduce risk, and deliver value fast – even in turbulent conditions. We heard real world examples where leaders have embraced digital disruption and accelerated their business in ways that wouldn’t have possible without technology.

Digital Transformation: From Survival to Success:

A CIO’s Journey to Business Leadership 

Through powerful storytelling and real-world case studies, we mastered the Three Languages of Leadership that convert technical expertise into business relevance. We learnt to speak outcomes instead of outputs, position ourselves as an indispensable business strategist, and discovered actionable frameworks to elevate our influence within our organisations. We walked away with immediately implementable strategies to become the transformational leader our companies needs in 2025 and beyond, transforming from IT manager to Chief Possibility Officer.

An Encore in Innovation: Modernising the English National Opera 

Madhu talked about the digital transformation she led at English National Opera. ENO is an organisation that will always prioritise their productions, not technology, but they knew a change was needed to shift things in a way not possible before. Not only to reduce overheads, but also to support future productions and transform the customer experience. Their first bold move was to engage Madhu and Madhu is here today to explain how she then led the ENO on a path of digital transformation which has changed the organisation forever and one that is now ready and able to take advantage of digital world.

From Hard Truths to Transformational Change:

A CIO’s Role in Digital Disruption 

The story began with a CEO facing mounting pressure, from shifting markets, rising customer expectations, and internal inefficiencies. With so many moving parts and no clear path forward, it was a moment of uncertainty. That’s where the CIO stepped in, not just as a technologist, but as a strategic partner. Steve explored how digital disruption – guided by a forward-thinking CIO – became the catalyst for clarity, alignment, and transformation, helping the CEO and the wider business not just adapt, but lead with confidence.

Artificial Intelligence has arrived: Where does it go from here? 

Artificial Intelligence has now definitively arrived – even though it doesn’t look like Hollywood predicted. The world’s richest companies are racing to roll out AI across their product suites, desperate to secure a competitive advantage in a market with trillions of dollars at stake. Where will the technology go next? What can we expect to see in the months and years ahead? How will AI affect business and society? Who will be the winners and losers? And, crucially, how will the future of AI be affected by the availability of data?   

Cyber Attack: Day Zero; what would you do? Your run book for cyber recovery 

Philip Clayson offered a unique perspective and practical lessons from his experience in spearheading the technology recovery efforts following TalkTalk’s notable cyber breach in 2015. Being one of the pioneering large-scale cyber attacks in the UK, Philip divulged the insights gained from the developed run-book, which has since been adopted by numerous telecom operators. This knowledge remains relevant today for all CIOs and CTOs seeking valuable guidance in cybersecurity. 

Reimagining Data Platforms: Disruptive Innovation or a Dangerous Detour? 

James spent his early career as a supply chain professional with extensive experience in the data-space. James talked about whether it’s time to replace outdated data platforms rather than iterate and how that’s possible with minimal disruption to the business providing insight and viewpoints on starting again with your data platform. 

Building Strategic Board-Level Engagement at Dogs Trust

Through the case study of a major technology investment, we heard how Mohan developed lasting and strong relationships to enable significant leaps forward in fundraising and dog care. Mohan gave insights into how he developed the strategy and enabled its approval. It was a fascinating look at a tech programme with significant benefits for people and animals alike!